Usually when it comes to recreating logos with pixel-by-pixel perfection, a high-resolution reference image of said logo(s) is needed to trace – with careful precision – using a bezier curve tool such as Adobe Illustrator’s Pen Tool. The process – depending on the level of one’s OCD tendencies – can take up to an hour based on one’s skillset and is used frequently by not just graphic designers, but also small teams of industrial designers and engineers who need vector artwork for CAD and/or rendering purposes.
However, for professional calligraphist Sebastian (Seb) Lester, the process of recreating logos in pen on paper with no reference image to trace takes less than a minute.
The precision penmanship skills that Lester was blessed with – combined with specific pen tips for each job – have given him the ability to recreate some of the most iconic logos in the world ranging from Adidas and FedEx to the Gap and Nike.
In addition to his uncanny ability to reproduce logos on-the-fly, Lester also lent his hand towards creating a large portfolio of custom typefaces for brands including British Airways, Intel, Barclays, The Daily Telegraph and H&M.
Here’s a small collection of the near-100 videos he has created that document his process:
I can’t even begin to imagine how long it took Seb to develop a tried-and-true technique for creating those perfectly-sculpted S’s. It might be time to hang my head in defeat and crack open those old cursive workbooks from grade school.
You can check out the rest of Lester’s incredible typography portfolio over at SebLester.com. For those who want even more of Seb’s videos, his Vimeo account is a treasure trove of process videos.
